0 Design Development jobs in Kenya

Industry
: Design Services / Arts & Crafts / Lifestyle Décor

Location
: Nairobi, Kenya

Employment Type
:(Onsite) Full-time

About Us

Nyota Living (under the Bobu Africa Lifestyle) is a purpose-driven cultural décor brand rooted in Africa and built to inspire the world. We collaborate with local artisans to create authentic, handcrafted pieces for hotels, lodges, safari camps, and export markets. Each product we design tells a story of heritage, wildlife, and community empowerment.

We are now seeking a passionate
Product Development Designer
to lead us in the creative journey from concept to finished product, working hand-in-hand with artisans to transform African traditions into contemporary, globally appealing décor.

Key Responsibilities.

1.Product Design & Development.

1.  Conceptualize from scratch and design handmade décor products aligned with brand identity and market demand.

2.  Translate design ideas into technical sketches, prototypes, and production-ready samples.

2.Artisan Collaboration.

1. Work closely with artisans to guide product creation, ensuring quality, consistency, and authenticity.

2. Develop and document SOPs for production processes.

3.Market Research & Trends.

1. Research global design trends, hospitality needs, and consumer preferences to inspire new collections.

2. Adapt traditional techniques into modern, functional, and export-ready designs.

4.Quality Assurance.

1.Ensure each product meets high standards of craftsmanship, durability, and sustainability.

2.Oversee sampling, testing, and refinement stages.

5.Project & Production Management.

1.Coordinate timelines, materials sourcing, and production processes.

2.Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to align design with customer expectations.

6.Innovation & Sustainability.

1.Drive design innovation while promoting eco-friendly practices.

2.Explore alternative materials that reflect African heritage, nature and wildlife while appealing to global markets.

Qualifications & Skills.

1.Degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a related field.

2.2–4 years of experience in product development, preferably in crafts, décor, or handmade industries.

1. Strong portfolio showcasing creative design and product development skills.

2. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, SketchUp/AutoCAD etc with skills for 2D/3D modeling, technical drawings, and product visualization.

5.Knowledge of materials, finishes, and sustainable production methods.

6.Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with artisans and cross-functional teams.

1. Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple products simultaneously.

Why Join Us

1.Be part of a purpose-driven brand that celebrates Africa's cultural heritage.

2.Work directly with talented artisans and make a real community impact.

3.Opportunity to innovate.

1. A collaborative environment where creativity and storytelling thrive.

Ready to bring African stories to life through design? Apply today and be part of a movement redefining African décor for the world.

How to apply

Share your
CV AND PORTFOLIO(
MUST) to our Email: with Subject title as Your Name+Job Title.

• Lead the mechanical design of new products and systems, from concept generation to detailed design and manufacturing release.
• Create complex 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed engineering drawings using industry-standard software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360).
• Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress, strain, vibration, and thermal performance validation.
• Select appropriate materials, components, and manufacturing processes based on product requirements and cost targets.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and product managers to ensure integrated system design.
• Develop and conduct design validation testing (DVT) and analyze results to refine designs.
• Generate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and support the procurement process.
• Work with manufacturing partners to resolve design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) issues.
• Document design decisions, calculations, and test results comprehensively.
• Stay current with new design tools, technologies, and manufacturing techniques.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of innovation and technical excellence.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical product design and development.
• Expert proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and simulation tools (FEA).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes such as injection molding, CNC machining, and sheet metal fabrication.
• Knowledge of material science and properties relevant to product design.
• Experience with prototyping and testing methodologies.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with the capacity to articulate technical concepts effectively in a remote setting.
• Ability to manage projects independently, meet deadlines, and adapt to evolving requirements.
• Experience in consumer electronics, automotive, or industrial equipment design is beneficial.

• Lead mechanical design efforts for new robotic products and systems.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings.
• Perform advanced FEA and CFD simulations to validate designs.
• Specify materials and manufacturing processes for optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical components and systems.
• Collaborate with electrical and software engineering teams on integrated system design.
• Document design specifications, test results, and manufacturing requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical knowledge sharing.
• Ensure designs meet safety, reliability, and performance standards.

• Lead the industrial design process from concept to production.
• Develop innovative and user-centered product designs.
• Create 3D models, renderings, and prototypes.
• Conduct user research and market analysis.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes.
• Ensure product aesthetics, functionality, and ergonomics meet high standards.
• Mentor and guide junior designers and engineers.
• Manage project timelines and budgets effectively.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial design and product development.
• Proven experience in a lead or senior design role.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and rendering tools.
• Strong portfolio of designed products.
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and user experience.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Ability to lead and collaborate with a remote team.

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and systems using advanced CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA).
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Perform finite element analysis (FEA) and other simulation techniques to validate designs for strength, durability, and thermal performance.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes based on product requirements and cost targets.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, industrial designers, and manufacturing specialists.
• Conduct design reviews, identify potential issues, and implement effective solutions.
• Oversee prototype development and testing, providing technical guidance and analysis.
• Troubleshoot design-related issues during the manufacturing and product lifecycle phases.
• Stay abreast of new technologies, materials, and design methodologies in mechanical engineering.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards.

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and product development.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, etc.) and FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with material selection and characterization.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superb written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a remote environment.
• Experience in designing for mass production and cost optimization is essential.
• Familiarity with different industry standards and quality control procedures.